Introduction

The Math Hierarchy of Needs is informed by the work of Abraham Maslow. Using his hierarchy as a model, we have mathematized each layer to act as a roadmap for creating empowered and confident problem-posing and problem-solving students.

Teachers, schools, and districts who fully address each layer of the hierarchy can be confident in knowing that they are implementing research-informed ambitious mathematics instruction that will result in students who are confident problem-posers and problem-solvers.

Each layer consists of a plethora of things a district can choose to focus on with respect to their goals, personnel, resources, and strengths. Lower layers are not intended to be prerequisites before beginning work higher up the pyramid, but the layers in their entirety do tell a coherent story of an ambitious mathematics system. The high-quality mathematics system necessary for achieving our vision occurs when students experience each of the layers in the hierarchy.

When trying to create an ambitious mathematics program for a school site or an entire district, each of the four layers must be fully addressed for students to become confident problem-posers and problem-solvers. In other words, students who are mathematically literate.

Explore each layer of the hierarchy and practical examples of how to fulfill the goals of that later.